Polyurethane Helps Make It a Spooktacular Halloween

In the race to have the spookiest house on the block, homeowners are deploying polyurethane-based decorations in their front yards. From jack-o-lanterns to witches to monsters of all kinds, polyurethane is showing up in all manner of Halloween home décor.

Decoration Spending Is Up

According to the National Retail Federation, Americans spent more than $9 billion in 2018 on Halloween. Of that amount, decorations was one of the largest spending categories, outpacing even candy sales.

This may be because in the spirit of one-upmanship, homeowners are turning to ever more elaborate decorations. Buyers in the market want home décor that lights up, moves and even growls at unsuspecting trick-or-treaters, giving them a fright.

Protecting Animatronics

In this kind of decoration, technology is increasingly used, and this is where polyurethane often plays a vital role. The delicate circuitries in these outdoor displays must be sheltered from the environment. Conditions like freezing and scorching temperatures, precipitation and even pollution can wreak havoc. In the design process, polyurethane often goes around these fragile parts to keep them clean and dry.

DIY Polyurethane Pumpkin Protection

If you are one of a growing number of do-it-yourselfers, your DIY soul may shudder at the thought of a store-bought costume or Halloween decoration. But even for this category of celebrant, polyurethane can still play a vital role in making it a Halloween to remember. For example, have you ever thought of trying to use a polyurethane resin to keep your pumpkin looking fresher, longer?

Just follow these simple steps, to keep your jack-o-lantern in spooktacular shape:

Once the pumpkin carving process is complete, submerge your ghoulish masterpiece in a mixture of water and bleach (1 tablespoon bleach per gallon of water) for about an hour, then set it aside to dry. You can even dab your jack-o-lantern with a clean towel.

After allowing it to thoroughly air out, apply a water-based polyurethane resin to every surface of the pumpkin, including the inside. You can use multiple coats if you wish.

Once dry, you now have a partially preserved pumpkin. Your polyurethane-coated jack-o-lantern should stay better protected from the elements — hopefully lasting throughout all your Halloween festivities without turning into and orange, mushy mess.

Safely Powering Your Pumpkin

If you choose to illuminate your carved pumpkin, remember to use a battery-powered LED light. This safer, more reliable alternative to an open-flame candle will keep your pumpkin and your holiday from going up in smoke.